"Unfortunately, the journey isn't over for these poor seabirds," the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), a seabird rescue center in Cape St. Francis, South Africa, wrote. "Many of them are still suffering the effects of dehydration, malnourishment and need to regain the natural waterproofing of their feathers before they can be released back into the wild. Our team will now begin the next stage of oil spill response management - rehabilitating the oil-free seabirds."

Oil breaks down the natural waterproofing of a penguin's feathers, the rescue organization said, and makes it impossible for the penguin to regulate his body temperature, which can lead to hypothermia.

"Oil also causes skin and eye irritation," SANCCOB wrote. "A natural reaction for penguins is to preen their feathers to remove the oil which can result in ingestion of oil, ultimately leading to ulcers, a reduced immune system and organ failure."

While the birds admitted to the center were dehydrated, stressed and weak at first, they're already looking a lot better after their baths - which can take two hours each.

"We are grateful for all the support from our partners and the local community," Juanita Raath, SANCCOB's rehabilitation coordinator, said in the release. "The team of staff and volunteers are working round the clock to ensure that the birds get the best care possible."